Major Counter-Terrorism Operation in the UK Leads to Arrest of Eight, Including Iranian Nationals

In a significant counter-terrorism operation, British police have arrested eight individuals, seven of whom are Iranian nationals, suspected of planning terrorist activities. The Metropolitan Police announced the arrests on May 4, 2025, as part of two distinct investigations aimed at safeguarding national security.

The first operation, which remains under wraps due to operational protocols, targeted an alleged plot to strike a specific location in England. While police refrained from revealing the precise target, they confirmed that the location’s owners have been informed and are receiving necessary support.

Five men aged between 29 and 46 were detained in this operation, with four identified as Iranian nationals. The arrests occurred across multiple locations, including London, Swindon, Stockport, Rochdale, and Manchester. Four of the suspects face charges of preparing an act of terrorism under Section 5 of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2006. The fifth individual, whose nationality is yet to be verified, was apprehended under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act.

In a separate operation, three Iranian men aged 39 to 55 were arrested in London, suspected of engaging in activities that jeopardize national security. They are currently in custody under Section 27 of the National Security Act 2023.

Dominic Murphy, the Metropolitan Police’s counter-terrorism commander, stated that the investigation is still in its early stages, emphasizing ongoing inquiries into possible motives and assessing any additional threats to public safety. Police are conducting searches at the suspects’ residences in London, Greater Manchester, and Swindon, collaborating with local law enforcement and specialized counter-terrorism units.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper commended the police and intelligence services for their critical role in maintaining national security.

The arrests have raised alarm within local communities, particularly in Rochdale, where reports surfaced of a suspect sustaining injuries during the raid. Residents described a heavy presence of armed officers and forensic teams collecting evidence from an East Street property. Heightening concerns, these arrests come in the wake of intelligence warnings regarding escalating threats from Iranian operatives. MI5 director Ken McCallum revealed in October 2024 that UK authorities had thwarted over 20 Tehran-backed plots, which included assassination and sabotage attempts targeting Iranian dissidents and journalists.